The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has denounced the election of openly lesbian bishop Rt. Rev. Cherry Vann as Archbishop of Wales, calling it a “dangerous departure from biblical truth” that threatens global Anglican unity.
In a strongly worded statement, Primate Henry Ndukuba warned the development signals “spiritual decadence” that could render the Welsh church irrelevant.
The condemnation reflects escalating tensions within the 85-million-member Anglican Communion over LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Archbishop Ndukuba compared Vann’s elevation to the controversial tenure of former U.S. Episcopal leader Katharine Jefferts Schori, asserting it undermines evangelism efforts.
Citing 2 Timothy 4:3-4, he accused Western churches of abandoning sound doctrine to “suit their own desires.”
The Nigerian church – representing over 18 million Anglicans – declared it would neither recognize Vann’s leadership nor maintain communion with the Church in Wales unless it repents.
Ndukuba urged conservative Anglicans worldwide to align with GAFCON, the traditionalist movement opposing progressive reforms on sexuality.
The statement comes as African Anglicans grow increasingly assertive in global church politics. Last month, Nigerian bishops barred politicians from pulpits after controversial remarks by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
The church also recently criticized Nigeria’s healthcare system following a former president’s death abroad.
Religious analysts note the Vann controversy may accelerate the Anglican Communion’s fragmentation, with Global South churches potentially forming a parallel structure.
The Welsh church has yet to respond, but LGBTQ+ Anglican groups have welcomed Vann’s election as historic progress.
